Members
Julian Casablancas (vocals), Nick Valensi (guitar), Albert Hammond Jr. (guitar), Nikolai Fraiture (bass), and Fabrizio Moretti (drums)
Formation
The founding process of The Strokes was a serendipitous convergence of childhood connections and a shared musical vision. Julian Casablancas, Fabrizio Moretti, and Nick Valensi, childhood friends with varying musical experiences, came together in the late '90s. The trio's dynamic was enriched with the addition of guitarist Albert Hammond Jr. and bassist Nikolai Fraiture. Bonded by a mutual love for garage rock, punk, and new wave, the quintet officially formed The Strokes in 1998, embarking on a journey to synthesize their diverse influences into a sound that would later redefine the indie rock landscape. The amalgamation of their individual talents and shared passion for music set the stage for The Strokes' rise to prominence in the early 2000s.
Is This It (2001)
"Is This It" The Strokes" debut album released in 2001 under the reputable record label RCA, is an electrifying sonic manifesto that not only redefined the landscape of indie rock but also garnered widespread critical acclaim. Infused with a raw and unfiltered energy, the album became an instant classic, hailed for its gritty exploration of New York City's underground music scene. Featuring iconic tracks like "Last Nite" and "Someday," Julian Casablancas' charismatic vocals, Nick Valensi and Albert Hammond Jr.'s guitar interplay, and the band's overall swagger made "Is This It" a timeless masterpiece. Its critical acclaim propelled The Strokes to the forefront of the early 2000s indie rock revival, cementing their status as trailblazers in the genre.
Room On Fire (2003)
"Room On Fire" the sophomore album by The Strokes released in 2003, seamlessly follows the success of their groundbreaking debut, "Is This It" The Strokes" (2001). While "Is This It" The Strokes" quickly became a cultural touchstone and achieved widespread acclaim, "Room On Fire" faced the challenge of living up to its predecessor's legacy.
From the rhythmic urgency of "12:51" to the infectious guitar riffs of "Reptilia," each track on "Room On Fire" showcases The Strokes' continued commitment to crafting catchy, yet substantive, rock anthems. While not eclipsing the commercial success of their debut, the album solidified The Strokes' standing as stalwarts of the early 2000s rock revival, demonstrating their artistic growth and ability to sustain their unique sound.
Juicebox and First Impressions Of Earth (2005 - 2006)
"Juicebox" by The Strokes, released as a single on November 14, 2005, ahead of their album "First Impressions of Earth," faced an early online leak, adding to the anticipation. Despite this, the track's bold guitar riffs and Julian Casablancas' charismatic vocals contributed to its positive reception, marking a significant moment in The Strokes' musical journey. They also released a catchy B-side "Hawaii".
"First Impressions Of Earth" The Strokes' third studio album released in January 2006, received a mix of reviews. Critics praised the album's experimental departure from the band's earlier sound, commending Julian Casablancas' introspective lyrics, dynamic guitar work, and rhythmic innovation. Standout tracks like "Juicebox" and "You Only Live Once" showcased The Strokes' ability to evolve while retaining their signature coolness. Despite differing opinions, the album marked a bold exploration of new musical territories and sparked conversations about the band's artistic evolution within the indie rock landscape.
Angles (2011)
"Angles" released by The Strokes in 2011, is a pivotal album in the band's journey, receiving a mix of reviews. Critics lauded its experimentation and collaborative nature, showcasing a departure from their previous works. Standout tracks like "Under Cover of Darkness" and "Machu Picchu" received praise for blending The Strokes' signature sound with fresh influences. While some critics found the album's diversity refreshing, others felt it lacked cohesion. Despite mixed reviews, "Angles" signaled The Strokes' return with a revitalized energy, sparking conversations about their evolving musical direction.
Comedown Machine (2013)
"Comedown Machine" released by The Strokes in 2013, is a unique entry in their discography. The album showcases a departure from their traditional sound, embracing a more synth-driven and experimental approach. Tracks like "One Way Trigger" and "Tap Out" demonstrate The Strokes' willingness to evolve, dividing critics but still affirming their capacity for sonic exploration. "Comedown Machine" adds another layer to The Strokes' musical evolution, inviting listeners into a realm of unexpected sounds and creative divergence. The Strokes adopted a media blackout strategy, refraining from interviews and traditional promotional activities. This intentional approach added an air of mystery to the album's release, sparking curiosity and discussions about the band's creative intentions.
Future Present Past EP (2016)
"Future Present Past" is a 2016 EP by The Strokes, featuring tracks like "Drag Queen", "OBLIVIOUS" and "Threat Of Joy" offering a glimpse into the band's evolving sound during the period between their albums "Comedown Machine" and "The New Abnormal".
The New Abnormal (2020)
Produced by legendary music producer Rick Rubin, "The New Abnormal" is The Strokes' sixth studio album, released in 2020 after a seven-year hiatus. The album represents a return to the spotlight for the band and showcases a blend of their signature rock sound with fresh and contemporary elements. Notable tracks include "The Adults Are Talking" and "Selfless". "The New Abnormal" received critical acclaim for its maturity, experimentation, and the band's ability to evolve while staying true to their distinctive style. The album's release was a highly anticipated moment for fans, marking a successful comeback for The Strokes after their extended hiatus.
Albert Hammond Jr. confirmed, that The Strokes are working on a new album, a follow-up to the succesful "The New Abnormal".
Here are the band members' side projects along with their released albums:
Julian Casablancas:
Julian Casablancas - Phrazes For The Young (2009).The Voidz - Tyranny (2014), Virtue (2018).
Albert Hammond Jr.
Albert Hammond Jr. - Yours To Keep (2006), Como Te Llama? (2008), Momentary Masters (2016), Francis Trouble (2018).
Nick Valensi
CRX - New Skin (2016), Peek (2018).
Fabrizio Moretti
Little Joy - Little Joy (2008).machinegum - Conduit (2019).
Nikolai Fraiture
Nickel Eye - The Time Of The Assassins (2008).SUMMER MOON - With You Tonight (2017), Casino Days (2023).
Home
The Strokes Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
One more day
Said she's not sorry the wind blows her way
Accidents happen, there's one planned today
Oh you see
I wish it was not true
But that's the way it is
That's the way it is
I'm sick of you
And that's the way it is
And will always be
Wednesday is over, it's over again.
Said my goodbyes to the life we won't spend
Together
I wish it was not true
But that's the way it is
It's not your fault
That's the way it is
I'm sick of you
And that's the way it is
But that's not your problem
That's not a problem
That's not my problem
That's not your problem
In this song, The Strokes are singing about a relationship that has come to an end. The singer is waking up next to their partner who is still sleeping, and they know that nothing has changed - their problems will stay, as will their separation. Even though the singer's partner says she's not sorry, she doesn't want to be with them anymore. He also acknowledges that accidents happen, but suggests that the end of the relationship was planned. However, he tells his partner that it's not her fault and that he's sick of her. This may suggest that he's tired of the relationship dynamic and how it's making him feel. He's resigned to the fact that it's just the way it is and always will be.
The second verse suggests that some time has passed since their breakup. The singer has said his goodbyes to the life he and his partner won't spend together. He again repeats that he wishes it wasn't true, but it is just the way it is. The chorus repeats, as the singer is trying to come to terms with his emotions and the situation at hand.
It is easy to interpret the lyrics as being about a sad, failing relationship, and the singer is coming to terms with the situation. However, Julian Casablancas, the lead singer of The Strokes, has often said that he doesn't like telling people what his songs are about. He likes to leave it up to interpretation, so it could be about something else entirely.
Line by Line Meaning
She was still sleeping; the problem will stay
Despite her obliviousness, the issue at hand will persist
One more day
Another day passes, but nothing changes
Said she's not sorry the wind blows her way
She takes no responsibility for her actions, choosing instead to go with the flow
Accidents happen, there's one planned today
Mistakes are inevitable, and one is set to occur shortly
Oh you see
An expression of realization or exasperation
I wish it was not true
A lamentation that the current situation is unwanted
But that's the way it is
Acceptance that things are the way they are and cannot be changed
It's not your fault
No one person is to blame for how things have turned out
I'm sick of you
Expressing exhaustion or frustration with someone or something
And that's the way it is
Reiterating acceptance that things will not change
And will always be
Implying that the situation is immutable and unchangeable
Wednesday is over, it's over again.
Another day has passed without significant change or progress
Said my goodbyes to the life we won't spend
Reflecting on lost opportunities and the closure of a chapter
Together
Highlighting the shared experience or loss
But that's not your problem
Indicating that someone is not responsible for another's issues
That's not a problem
Clarifying that nothing is inherently wrong or broken
That's not my problem
Dismissing any responsibility for the situation
That's not your problem
Again emphasizing that someone is not obligated to fix or address another's situation
Lyrics © BMG RIGHTS MANAGEMENT US, LLC
Written by: JULIAN CASABLANCAS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
vic
Never ever softly sleeping
One to which it all comes easy
I have spent a life time leaving
Just so that we never could be
Now I'm never at home
Leave me outside, but don't leave me alone
Now I'm never at home
You and me can take it easy
Even though the times are leaving
Me to find a single feeling
Ever pressing always fleeting
Maybe it was something that I dreamt
Maybe it was something that I drank
Maybe I was awake you know these days
I can barely differentiate
Christopher Lute
I would like to add that I love the strokes, and I did this as a gag because all my friends kept giving my shit about how much this song sounded like a Strokes rip off. I'm pretty blown away that almost 50,000 people have seen this, and I'm really glad to have had the chance to be heard by so many people, even though it was mostly by accident and misdirection. This was not an attempt to scam the Strokes, or make money, it was just me having some shitty fun. To those who've enjoyed it, thanks for being a good sport and having an open mind. To those of you who feel bamboozled, hoodwinked, etc., I apologize for wasting 4 minutes of your very serious life.
BelzoraHollow3
It kinda sounds like the strokes mixed with something a little older. Can’t put my finger on it though. It’s really good and you should definitely record an official version of you haven’t already and link it!
gianfranco
Bro Is that you?! Wao thanks. Please make a oficial version dude!! What are u wainting for.
Kayvon Sharifi
wtf man this isn’t the strokes
gianfranco
No son los the strokes. Es una canción de un músico independiente es la única canción de rock dentro de un álbum de electrónica experimental. Es bastante raro
Welhy Nole
Sounds alittle different but if you told be this was Julian I’d believe it
Karl-Erik Berg
this is actually real good. true i wanted to hear a strokes song but this is just as good
AlmostSwedish
This better than it has any right to be.
Douglas Washington
Perfeito, muito boa música !!!!
Missoja
Eu queria saber q musica eh essa pq n eh strokes